There are several types of cancer near the spinal cord and the spine. The most common are epidural tumors, which grow in the bones that surround the spinal cord. These types of tumors may compress the spinal cord, nerve roots, or spinal fluid. Other types of cancer near the spine are called nerve plexus tumors. These tumors may be benign, but they can become malignant if they become large enough to cause problems.
Surgical removal of a spinal tumor does not cure this type of tumor, but advanced treatments are improving the prognosis for patients with this type of tumor. Various treatments can slow the tumor’s growth, eliminate pain, and maintain the spine’s stability. There are several ways to diagnose cancer near the spine. Read on to learn more about the options for treatment. Cancers can spread from one part of the body to another, so treatment options should be carefully considered.
There are two types of tumors that can develop near the spinal cord. First, there are primary spinal tumors, which arise in the spinal cord. These are usually benign, but surgery to remove them may be difficult. Most of these tumors are located in the cervical spine. Patients with cancer histories should undergo more frequent screening to rule out cancer near the spinal cord. Most people diagnosed with spinal tumors have a history of other cancers, which makes screening for this condition even more important.
Symptoms of a cancer near the spine vary, but the most common pattern is pain in the region of the tumor, neurological problems, and altered bowel habits. In addition, the presence of new onset of spinal pain may be indicative of a metastatic tumor. While tumors that grow inside the dura are usually benign, they can cause pain for years. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to visit your doctor right away.
Treatment for cancer near the spine varies depending on the type of cancer. If your doctor suspects the presence of a cancer near the spine, he or she will likely recommend a CT-myelography. This consists of the injection of radiographic contrast into spinal fluid, and may also recommend X-rays. The most common primary tumors near the spine are vertebral hemangiomas. These tumors rarely cause symptoms.
A surgical procedure for a cancer near the spinal cord has a high risk of major complications. Approximately 14% of patients who undergo spinal tumor surgery suffer from serious postoperative complications. Patients with significant co-morbid conditions and/or those who take steroids are at higher risk for complications. If your doctor suspects that your cancer near the spinal cord is a primary tumor, it may be necessary to perform radiation therapy in addition to surgery. If surgery does not relieve the pressure on the spinal cord, chemotherapy may be recommended.
Primary cancers that spread to the spinal cord include breast, lung, and melanoma. Other types of cancer can spread from the spinal cord to other areas of the body. Malignant tumors spread through the spine because they can’t be removed without causing severe pain. Fortunately, most cancers are not dangerous to your health. You should seek treatment as soon as possible if you notice any signs of cancer near your spine.
